Arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA), also known as Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), is a type of arthritis that affects children under the age of 16. It is characterized by persistent joint inflammation, which can lead to joint damage and other complications if not properly managed.
Overview[edit | edit source]
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. The exact cause of JRA is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Types of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis[edit | edit source]
JRA is classified into several types based on the number of joints involved and the presence of other symptoms:
- Oligoarticular JRA: Affects four or fewer joints. It is the most common form and often affects larger joints such as the knees.
- Polyarticular JRA: Affects five or more joints and can involve both large and small joints. It is similar to adult rheumatoid arthritis.
- Systemic JRA: Also known as Still's disease, it affects the entire body and is characterized by fever, rash, and inflammation of internal organs in addition to joint inflammation.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Common symptoms of JRA include:
- Joint pain and swelling
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
- Fever and rash (in systemic JRA)
- Fatigue
- Reduced range of motion
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosing JRA involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Common tests include:
- Blood tests: To check for markers of inflammation and autoantibodies such as rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA).
- Imaging tests: X-rays or MRI scans to assess joint damage.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms, prevent joint damage, and maintain function. Treatment options include:
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents.
- Physical therapy: To improve joint function and maintain muscle strength.
- Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement or other surgical interventions may be necessary.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for children with JRA varies. Some children may experience remission, while others may have persistent symptoms into adulthood. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- "Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis." National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. [1]
- "Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis." Mayo Clinic. [2]
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid is a rare disease.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
